Moscow expresses displeasure, while Kiev celebrates over Trump's suggested tariff intimidation
In a bold move, US President Donald Trump has announced a new ultimatum to achieve peace in Ukraine, setting a deadline of 10 to 12 days for a ceasefire or peace agreement. This shortens the deadline for a resolution to less than two weeks.
The announcement has been met with mixed reactions. Moscow, represented notably by Dmitry Medvedev, former Russian President and deputy chairman of Russia’s Security Council, has expressed strong opposition. Medvedev described the shortened deadline as a dangerous escalation and a "step towards war," warning that repeated ultimatums threaten not only the escalation of the Russia-Ukraine conflict but could provoke conflict involving the US as well.
On the other hand, the Ukrainian leadership has welcomed Trump’s new, firm stance enthusiastically. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed gratitude for Trump’s "clear stance and expressed determination," underscoring that Ukraine remains committed to peace and appreciates efforts to stop the war. Zelenskyy’s chief of staff, Andriy Yermak, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that Putin “only understands strength,” thus framing Trump’s ultimatum as a positive and necessary pressure on Russia.
The Ukrainian leadership is not limiting itself to defensive measures in defending the country. Last night, Ukrainian air defense intercepted around 300 Russian drones. In addition, Ukrainian President Zelensky declared the production of interception drones a priority and announced the strengthening of the SBU intelligence agency, specifically the Center for Special Operations.
However, Putin has rejected proposals for an unconditional ceasefire, justifying his rejection by stating that Ukraine could use the ceasefire to gather new strength, continue the war with new weapons deliveries from its allies, further mobilize soldiers, and reorganize its troops.
Zelensky, in response, praised Trump's new tone and emphasized that sanctions are a key element in achieving peace. Trump's new 100% tariff is intended to persuade Russia's trading partners, led by China and India, to either reduce purchases of Russian oil and gas or pressure Russia to achieve a peaceful solution in Ukraine.
This stark divide in reactions highlights the ongoing tension between Moscow and Kiev. While Moscow perceives the ultimatum as provocative and dangerous, potentially escalating conflict, Kiev views it as a firm and timely push essential to ending the war. The deadline shortening from 50 to 10–12 days underscores rising impatience from the US side and tensions on both fronts.
The new ultimatum proposed by President Trump about war-and-conflicts in Ukraine has resulted in differing opinions, particularly between Moscow and Kiev. Moscow, represented by Dmitry Medvedev, views the shortened deadline as a step towards war and a dangerous escalation, fearing it could trigger a wider conflict. In contrast, the Ukrainian leadership, led by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, has enthusiastically welcomed Trump's firm stance, seeing it as a necessary pressure required to stop the ongoing conflict. This divergence in perspectives underlines the ongoing political tensions between Russia and Ukraine.
